Description
Best Lemon Grilled Salmon is zesty, juicy, and grilled to perfection—ideal for healthy dinners, BBQs, or a quick summer meal with bold flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on for extra crispiness)
- 2 lemons (one for juice, one for slices)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp honey (trust us, it’s magic)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional, but fancy)
Instructions
Marinate the salmon: Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the fillets and let them sit for 15 minutes (or up to 30 if you’re patient).
Prep the grill or skillet: Heat to medium-high.
If using a grill, oil the grates so the salmon doesn’t stick. Indoor cooks, a cast-iron skillet works wonders.
Grill the salmon: Place fillets skin-side down first. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side.
Don’t flip more than once—salmon isn’t a pancake.
Add lemon slices: Throw a few lemon slices on the grill for the last 2 minutes. They caramelize and double as a garnish.
Rest and serve: Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes. Top with herbs if you’re feeling extra.
Devour immediately.
Notes
Overcooking: Salmon goes from juicy to jerky fast.
Aim for slightly translucent in the center.
Skipping the marinade time: 15 minutes minimum, or you’ll miss out on flavor.
Using bottled lemon juice: Fresh is non-negotiable. Bottled stuff tastes like regret.
Flipping too early: Let the skin crisp up before you move it. Patience pays off.